1. Who Do I Write the Check To?
LMS Band- Linkhorne Middle School handles all the money for Winter Guard and drumline. We thank them so much for their support!
2. Why aren't we wearing school colors?
Sometimes we are able to wear school colors in our uniforms and other times we choose to go with a more "thematic" uniform to interpret the music or the theme of the show. The trend in recent years, in both indoor and outdoor competition, is to choose a costume that relates to your music or theme rather than simply going with a traditional school uniform. It is another way that we can visually interpret the music and another way that our activity uses theatrical elements to create entertainment for the audience. You will find as you watch other winter guards that this activity is not simply about performing our equipment skills to the music but also about interpreting the music visually through color, costume and set design.
3. Why don't we just buy flags instead of make them?
Flags ordered from catalogs typically cost between $30.00 and $60.00 each. With an average of 16 members and 4 flag changes per show the cost quickly rises beyond our means. However, fabric costs only $3.50 per yard and each flag uses only about 2 - 3 yards of fabric. This is a much more reasonable solution which allows us to get new flags each year that are specific to the colors and visuals called for by the style of music. Even to hire a seamstress to help make the flags does not cost as much as to buy them from a catalog!
4. Are there other Winter Guards in Central Virginia?
Yes! Actually, there are winter guards at Jefferson Forest High School(2 teams), Brookevill High School, Bassett High School, Salem High School (2 teams) and Lord Botetourt High School. It's an activity that is definitely growing in our area! We have hosted a parent preview show of EC Glass winter guards and percussion units since Spring 2007. This year that showcase will include Jefferson Forest High school.
5. What is the purpose of the floor cover?
It serves two purposes, both practical and aesthetic. First, by covering the gym floor with a vinyl tarp we help to reduce the amount of damage to the floor caused by dropped equipment. Second, by covering the distracting basketball and volleyball court markings with a tarp (and even by painting the tarp to match the theme of the show) we draw the focus away from the floor markings and to the performers and equipment work.
6. Can winter guard performers participate in another sport?
In many cases it is very difficult for a student to participate in another school-affiliated winter or spring sport AND winter guard simply because of timing conflicts. Our season extends from early November to early April overlapping both the winter and spring sports seasons. In a few instances there have been students who have been able to work out their participation in both by discussing their individual situation with both coaches, however, in every situation the time of overlap was extremely stressful for the student in keeping up with the sport, schoolwork and guard.7. What if I have to miss a competition?In most cases it is not allowable to miss a competition. Exceptions are made on a case by case basis (and are granted for things like other school events). Please see Coach Lipford to discuss your particular situation.
